Aged Care Services and Assessments operate as a nationwide program, backed by the Commonwealth Government. Comprehensive details are readily available on the My Aged Care website, your central online hub for navigating aged care in Australia. These assessment services play a crucial role in assisting older individuals and their caregivers to pinpoint the most suitable care options aligned with their specific needs. They also serve to ascertain eligibility for accessing various Commonwealth Government-funded aged care services.
Alt text: An aged care assessor engages in a discussion about program guidelines with a senior individual, highlighting the focus on personalized care planning to meet individual needs.
Assessments are conducted by independent, multidisciplinary teams. These teams are composed of professionals who may hold clinical qualifications, including social workers, nurses, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists. Non-clinical assessors also form part of these teams, bringing a diverse range of expertise to the evaluation process.
In response to the Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety, the Commonwealth Government is committed to enhancing the aged care landscape. A key initiative is the introduction of a new integrated assessment model alongside a revamped in-home care program. This transition is being rolled out in stages to ensure a smooth implementation.
The shift towards a unified assessment model commenced in July 2024. Currently, in Victoria, the Department of Health, through Health Services and select Community Health Services, manages a portion of the Regional Assessment Service (RAS) and the entirety of the Aged Care Assessment Service (ACAS) on behalf of the Commonwealth Government. The remaining RAS services in Victoria are provided by organizations holding direct agreements with the Commonwealth.
Alt text: A flowchart visually represents the aged care assessment program guidelines, illustrating the step-by-step process for individuals to access necessary aged care services.
Looking ahead to December 2024, it is anticipated that all assessment providers will be equipped to deliver both RAS and ACAS assessments within the community setting.
Accessing an assessment remains a straightforward and cost-free process. Individuals can request an assessment by simply reaching out to My Aged Care. The My Aged Care website is also a valuable resource for information concerning various aged care support programs, such as the Commonwealth Home Support Program, Home Care Packages Program, and Residential Aged Care services.
Alt text: Screenshot of the My Aged Care website portal, serving as the central online resource for accessing information on aged care assessment program guidelines and related services throughout Australia.
Services Tailored for Younger Individuals
For individuals under the age of 65, the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) is the primary point of contact to determine eligibility for participation.
If a younger person does not meet the NDIS eligibility criteria, alternative support avenues may be available. The Ability First Australia (AFA) Younger People in Residential Aged Care (YPIRAC) system coordinators network offers nationwide support. These coordinators assist younger individuals in navigating the system to access suitable housing and services that align with their goals and address their unique needs effectively. More information about AFA’s YPIRAC System Coordinator Program is available online, or you can contact AFA directly.
Younger individuals, specifically those under 65 years or under 50 years for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people, may also qualify for the Home and Community Care Program for Younger People (HACC-PYP).
Addressing Special Needs in Aged Care Assessments
It is paramount that special needs are duly considered during every aged care assessment. A comprehensive suite of protocols and guidelines is in place to ensure that individuals with special needs receive the appropriate level of care and support tailored to their circumstances.
